Voters Report Widespread Inflation Hardship
Consumer-facing operators should plan for households whose finances and sentiment have weakened under cost pressure.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Inflation
Live Poll
Do you think your household's finances are better or worse than two years ago?
A 2026 election day Voter Poll of more than 79,000 people, conducted by SSRS for a consortium of news companies, found the economy (39%) and the state of democracy (32%) were the top issues for U.S. voters. For operators, the poll signals how sharply voter sentiment about costs and the economy is running heading into the midterms.
Why it matters
Three quarters of respondents rated the economy as not so good or poor, and 79% said inflation had caused them severe or moderate hardship in the past year. Those attitudes shape consumer caution and spending decisions at the point where business owners are planning hiring, pricing, and inventory.
The poll surveyed more than 79,000 people, with 75% rating the economy as not so good or poor versus 25% who rated it excellent or good. Concern over costs was high, with 59% very concerned about petrol and diesel prices and 58% very concerned about food and grocery prices.
The players
SSRS
A research firm that conducts survey and polling research for media and institutional clients.
The details
The survey included exit polling of both early and election day voters and asked tens of thousands of American voters about their opinions and motivations. Respondents were asked to name the most important issue, with economy at 39%, state of democracy at 32%, and immigration at 14%. Among those who said they had a family finances view, 44% reported their finances were worse than two years ago, while 38% said about the same and 18% said better. Asked about the source of higher-than-usual prices, 62% said Trump's policies were the bigger factor versus 38% who pointed to factors beyond his control.
Timeline
Election day Voter Poll results published on November 3, 2026.
Market Landscape
The poll's household finance question, which compares current conditions to two years earlier, is the reference frame for judging whether cost pressure has become broad or remains concentrated. Operators weighing demand against consumer sentiment can use this benchmark to gauge how far inflation-driven caution has spread.
Operators in consumer-facing categories should expect cautious spending from households reporting strained finances, with food and fuel costs top of mind. Review pricing and promotional plans against that sentiment, and watch how it evolves over the coming months.
The takeaway
Plan around sustained cost-of-living sensitivity rather than assuming a quick sentiment rebound. Track monthly consumer spending and price-sensitivity indicators through the next quarter before committing to major inventory or hiring changes.
Further reading
Track broader price trends in our Inflation coverage for context on how cost pressures are reshaping household budgets.
Live Poll
Do you think your household's finances are better or worse than two years ago?
